Arts Tower, University of Sheffield
Discover Sheffield’s iconic Arts Tower, a brutalist masterpiece with the UK's largest paternoster lift and panoramic city views.
The Arts Tower is an iconic 20-storey university building in Sheffield, England, notable for its striking brutalist architecture and the UK's largest surviving paternoster lift. Opened in 1965 and extensively refurbished in 2011, it houses the School of Architecture and Landscape and offers panoramic city views from its upper floors. A Grade II* listed landmark, it remains a symbol of Sheffield's academic and architectural heritage.
A brief summary to Arts Tower
- Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, GB
- +441142222000
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Try riding the unique paternoster lift for a rare vertical transport experience.
- Visit during weekday office hours to access public areas and enjoy panoramic views.
- Explore the design studios and workshops if you have interest in architecture and digital media.
- Check for any university events that might restrict visitor access before planning your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Several bus routes serve stops near the University of Sheffield campus, providing frequent connections from Sheffield city center and train station. Travel times range from 10 to 20 minutes with tickets costing approximately £2-£4. The nearby Sheffield University tram stop offers another convenient option with similar travel times and fares.
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Walking
From Sheffield train station, the Arts Tower is reachable on foot within 20 to 30 minutes along mostly flat, urban terrain. The route is accessible for most travelers and offers a pleasant walk through the city center and university campus.
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Car
Visitors using private vehicles can access nearby university car parks, including Blue Badge parking for disabled visitors. Parking availability is limited and often restricted during university events. Expect a 5 to 15-minute walk from parking areas to the Arts Tower. Parking fees typically range from £3 to £8 per day.
Arts Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Arts Tower
Architectural Landmark of Sheffield
The Arts Tower, completed in 1965 and located at 12 Bolsover Street, stands as one of Sheffield's tallest and most distinctive academic buildings. Designed by Gollins, Melvin, Ward & Partners, it is celebrated for its elegant brutalist style and was once the tallest building in Sheffield until 2010. At 78 meters tall with 20 storeys, it is a Grade II* listed structure, reflecting its architectural and historic significance. The tower's design is complemented by a mezzanine-level bridge linking it to the adjacent Western Bank Library, creating a cohesive academic complex.Unique Vertical Transport Experience
One of the Arts Tower's most remarkable features is its paternoster lift—the largest surviving in the UK with 38 continuously moving cars. This rare form of lift offers visitors and students a unique, nostalgic experience of vertical transport, requiring careful stepping on and off. The building also contains two conventional lifts, but the paternoster remains a highlight for those interested in engineering and historic machinery.Academic Heart and Creative Hub
Today, the Arts Tower primarily houses the University of Sheffield's School of Architecture and Landscape. The upper nine floors are dedicated to these departments, fostering a vibrant creative atmosphere. The building includes design studios with panoramic views over Sheffield, digital media facilities, and a print and make workshop equipped with advanced fabrication tools. This blend of historic architecture and modern educational resources makes it a dynamic space for students and faculty alike.Panoramic Views and Visitor Access
Visitors to the Arts Tower can enjoy expansive 360-degree views of Sheffield's cityscape and surrounding hills from the upper floors, providing a unique perspective on the urban and natural environment. While primarily an academic building, public access to certain areas, including the paternoster lift, is generally possible during office hours. Visitors may need to sign in or show identification, and access can be limited during university events.Historical and Cultural Significance
Officially opened by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 1966, the Arts Tower originally accommodated all of the university's arts departments. Its enduring presence reflects the growth and evolution of the University of Sheffield. The building's brutalist aesthetic and engineering features have made it a symbolic image of the city, especially among students and alumni. It remains a landmark not only for its height but also for its cultural and educational importance.Facilities and Surrounding Environment
The Arts Tower includes a café in the basement and various student facilities such as a computer room and language teaching center. Its central location on the university campus places it within easy reach of other notable buildings and green spaces. The surrounding area supports a lively academic community with plenty of amenities nearby, making it a convenient and engaging place to visit or study.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
0.2 km
Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Sheffield War Memorial
1.0 km
A solemn and iconic Grade II* listed cenotaph in Sheffield city centre, honoring the city's wartime sacrifices with striking sculptures and historic symbolism.
The Museum
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Museum, Sheffield's beloved pub and restaurant, where local flavors meet a lively social scene.
Green Police Box
1.2 km
Sheffield’s unique green and white police box, a charming relic of early 20th-century policing, stands proudly outside the Town Hall as a symbol of local heritage.
The Chimney House
1.2 km
Award-winning industrial-chic venue in Kelham Island offering intimate events with exceptional food and warm hospitality in Sheffield.
Friesday Belgian Fries
1.3 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
Iron Bridge
1.5 km
Explore Sheffield’s iconic Iron Bridge, a stunning early 20th-century iron landmark offering rich industrial heritage and scenic riverside views.
Crucible Stack
1.7 km
Explore Sheffield’s iconic Crucible Stack, a rare industrial landmark embodying the city’s pioneering steelmaking heritage and architectural resilience.
Lost & Found Sheffield
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Endcliffe Campus
1.7 km
A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Wicker Arches
1.9 km
A dramatic Victorian railway viaduct running beneath Sheffield city centre, now home to workshops, bars and street art in a gritty, atmospheric urban space.
Endcliffe Park
2.1 km
Explore the beauty of Endcliffe Park in Sheffield, a perfect blend of nature, community, and tranquility for all visitors seeking relaxation.
Chelsea Park
2.8 km
Discover Chelsea Park in Sheffield: a peaceful retreat with stunning gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics in a tranquil environment.
Hillsborough Park Walled Garden
2.9 km
Explore the enchanting Hillsborough Park Walled Garden in Sheffield, a serene retreat filled with vibrant flora and rich history, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Skye Edge AveSheffield
3.0 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Skye Edge in Sheffield, a serene tourist attraction perfect for nature lovers and urban explorers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Weston Park
0.2 km
A historic Victorian park in Sheffield blending serene green spaces, cultural heritage, and recreational charm beside the Weston Park Museum.
Weston Park Museum
0.4 km
Discover Sheffield’s rich heritage and natural wonders in the historic Weston Park Museum, a family-friendly cultural gem nestled in scenic Weston Park.
Devonshire Quarter
0.6 km
A vibrant urban village in Sheffield’s heart, blending independent shops, historic charm, lively pubs, and green spaces.
Turner Museum of Glass
0.7 km
Explore the art and science of glassmaking at Sheffield’s Turner Museum of Glass, a hidden gem blending heritage and innovation.
Rob Lee Mural
0.8 km
A vibrant street art mural by Rob Lee celebrating 30 years of True North Brew Co’s brewing legacy in Sheffield’s city centre.
Sheffield Maker's Emporium
0.8 km
Discover Sheffield’s vibrant local craftsmanship with unique, handcrafted fashion and accessories at the heart of the city centre.
Crack The Code Escape Rooms Sheffield
0.9 km
Race against the clock in Sheffield’s most immersive escape rooms, where every clue brings you closer to freedom.
Sheffield City Hall
1.0 km
Historic Sheffield square featuring City Hall, war memorial, fountains, vibrant events, and iconic public art in the city centre.
Chap Fountains
1.0 km
A peaceful urban retreat with flowing water features symbolizing Sheffield’s rivers and steel heritage in the city centre.
Orchard Square
1.1 km
A vibrant open-air shopping and leisure destination in Sheffield, blending retail, culture, and community in a historic city-centre setting.
National Emergency Services Museum
1.1 km
Explore the heroic history of emergency services in Sheffield’s stunning Victorian police, fire, and ambulance station museum.
Fronteer Gallery
1.2 km
Independent artist-led gallery showcasing thought-provoking contemporary art in Sheffield City Centre.
Atkinsons Department Store
1.2 km
Sheffield’s historic independent department store blending tradition, quality, and modern retail on The Moor.
Cutlers' Hall Hospitality
1.2 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern event excellence in Sheffield's most prestigious banquet hall.
Sheffield Town Hall
1.2 km
Discover the architectural splendor and rich history of Sheffield Town Hall, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Sheffield City Centre.
Essential places to dine
Napoli Centro
0.5 km
Authentic Neapolitan pizza and unique Italian desserts in Sheffield’s vibrant Broomhall neighborhood.
Piccolo's
0.5 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Sheffield’s Broomhall serving authentic dishes with warm service and a relaxed vibe.
BB’s
0.8 km
Authentic Italian dining with stylish ambiance and warm hospitality in Sheffield City Centre’s vibrant heart.
Pieminister
0.9 km
Discover Pieminister in Sheffield: where traditional British pies meet modern flavors in a lively city centre setting.
Turtle Bay Sheffield
1.0 km
Lively Caribbean restaurant and bar in Sheffield city centre, known for bold flavours, 2-for-1 cocktails, and vibrant island vibes.
JORO Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience Sheffield’s cutting-edge modern European dining with JÖRO’s inventive tasting menus and theatrical live-fire cooking.
Butcher & Catch
1.0 km
Savor Sheffield’s finest modern British meat and seafood dishes in a warm, wood-panelled setting with bold flavors and generous portions.
Zizzi - Sheffield Leopold Square
1.0 km
Modern Italian dining with vibrant atmosphere, vegan-friendly options, and stylish setting in Sheffield’s bustling Leopold Square.
5Tara Sheffield - Kelham Island
1.0 km
Authentic Punjabi street food with fresh flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Kelham Island, Sheffield.
ASK Italian
1.0 km
Modern Italian dining with local spirit and inclusive menus in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
The Botanist Sheffield
1.0 km
A lush, botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Sheffield city centre offering inventive cocktails, hearty meals, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Cubana Tapas Bar
1.0 km
Experience authentic Cuban tapas, vibrant Latin music, and lively salsa dancing in the heart of Sheffield’s city centre.
La Bottega
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian craftsmanship and artisanal flavors in the heart of Sheffield City Centre at La Bottega.
The Furnace - Sheffield
1.1 km
A vibrant Sheffield restaurant and bar blending British and American grill traditions with live music and a welcoming atmosphere.
Grazie
1.1 km
Experience authentic Southern Italian flavors with fresh handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the heart of Sheffield City Centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sheffield Store
0.2 km
Affordable, stylish clothing with a charitable spirit at the heart of Sheffield University’s Students' Union.
Within Reason
0.7 km
Discover quirky gifts, jewelry, toys, and home treasures at this independent Sheffield gem on Devonshire Street—unique finds for every occasion.
Vulgar
0.8 km
Explore Sheffield’s vibrant vintage scene at Vulgar, a uniquely decorated shop with friendly service and eclectic fashion finds.
The Savage Sister
0.8 km
Discover rare vintage designer treasures from the '90s and '00s in Sheffield’s stylish and sustainable boutique, The Savage Sister.
The Alternative Store
0.8 km
Sheffield's fiercely independent hub for unique streetwear, hats, and jewellery since 1992—quality alternative fashion with local flair and eco-conscious craft.
True North Store
0.8 km
Discover Sheffield’s craft spirit heritage at True North Store, a hub for artisan gins and unique local gifts in the heart of the city centre.
Sheffield Convenience Store
0.8 km
Your go-to convenience store in Sheffield City Centre for snacks, drinks, and travel essentials, open late night for all your needs.
Preloved Kilo
0.8 km
Discover vintage treasures priced by weight at Preloved Kilo, Sheffield’s vibrant hub for sustainable and stylish pre-loved clothing.
Rocky Horrors
0.8 km
Discover bold rock-inspired boots and shoes at Rocky Horrors, Sheffield’s iconic alternative footwear shop in the city centre.
Mint (New name coming soon)
0.8 km
Discover Sheffield City Centre’s eclectic boutique blending fashion, jewelry, and unique local treasures on vibrant Division Street.
Ryan Vintage
0.9 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Ryan Vintage, Sheffield’s premier vintage clothing boutique in the city centre.
Glass Onion Sheffield
0.9 km
Explore Sheffield’s premier vintage clothing store blending sustainable fashion with stylish, curated collections in a unique urban setting.
Shady Gifts
1.0 km
Bold, handmade sarcastic and drag-themed gifts in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre, perfect for unique and cheeky presents.
Kelham Island Books + Music
1.0 km
An intimate second‑hand book and vinyl shop on Shalesmoor, full of eclectic titles, records, posters and locally minded finds.
Søstrene Grene
1.1 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creative inspiration at Søstrene Grene, Sheffield’s boutique for art supplies, home décor, and unique gifts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Revolution Sheffield
0.6 km
Lively bar and grill in Sheffield’s West One Plaza with four unique bars, rooftop views, and expertly crafted cocktails.
The Wick at Both Ends
0.6 km
A warm, unpretentious cocktail bar in Sheffield city centre serving crafted drinks, lively music and a social, rustic interior.
Green Room Bar
0.6 km
A lively independent bar and live music venue in Sheffield’s city centre, known for great beers and a welcoming atmosphere.
BrewDog Sheffield
0.8 km
Discover BrewDog Sheffield, a lively craft beer bar with a spacious beer garden, modern industrial style, and an impressive selection of brews in the heart of Sheffield.
Frog & Parrot
0.8 km
Lively British pub and live music venue in Sheffield City Centre, known for quality ales, traditional food, and vibrant nightlife.
Trippets Lounge Bar
0.8 km
Sheffield's intimate jazz lounge where live music, gins, and tapas-style plates create an unforgettable evening retreat in the city centre.
Slug & Lettuce - Sheffield
1.0 km
Vibrant Sheffield cocktail bar where every hour feels like happy hour—brunch by day, cocktails and dancing by night in stylish city centre surrounds.
Kuckoo Sheffield
1.0 km
Inventive cocktails and pulsating beats define this Leopold Square gem, where Sheffield's nightlife ignites in a whirlwind of creativity and energy.
Yates - Sheffield
1.0 km
Sheffield's all-day dynamo: daytime pub grub and sports, nighttime DJ beats and cocktails in the city centre buzz.
Bamboo Door
1.1 km
A vibrant tiki-themed cocktail bar in Sheffield City Centre, famed for exotic rum drinks and lively late-night vibes.
The Three Tuns, S1
1.1 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Sheffield City Centre, famed for excellent ales, hearty food, and lively karaoke and comedy nights.
All Bar One Sheffield
1.1 km
Stylish Sheffield wine bar on Leopold Street for tapas, cocktails, brunch, and urban vibes near theatres and shops.
Bar Kelham
1.1 km
Sizzling grills, craft cocktails, and sports action in Sheffield's coolest industrial island hideaway – your go-to for flavor-packed hangs.
SALT Sheffield
1.1 km
Hop-forward craft beers, wood-fired pizzas, and lively vibes in Sheffield's Kelham Island—SALT Sheffield crafts unforgettable evenings for beer aficionados and casual crowds alike.
Cheap Dates
1.1 km
Affordable cocktails and lively vibes await at Sheffield’s beloved dive bar, Cheap Dates, in the heart of Orchard Square.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Brutalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
